Property Market Insights: A Surge Ahead of the Stamp Duty Deadline

The UK property market shows strong activity. Many buyers and landlords use mortgage calculators. These simple tools help you see how payments affect your budget. They also show how extra payments or remortgaging can save money. If you plan to buy an HMO or any other property, these tools are key to knowing your finances.

Recent Market Activity

Rightmove data shows a good start to 2025. In March, asking prices rose by 1.1%. The average asking price is now £371,870, a rise from February. Sales grew by 9% compared to last year. This trend shows that the market stays strong on a busy season.

Market data confirms that March is a good month for sellers. Colleen Babcock at Rightmove points out that more properties are listed than they have been since 2015. A change in stamp duty rules on 1 April makes buyers act fast. Babcock notes that 575,000 transactions are now in progress.

Stamp duty changes lower the nil-rate threshold. This change means most buyers will pay more tax. It makes many buyers hurry to complete their deals.

Mortgage Rate Trends

Mortgage activity grows while rates stay steady. The average five-year fixed rate is 4.74%. This is lower than the 6.11% seen in July 2023. Mark Harris from SPF Private Clients says many buyers still struggle with costs.

The Bank of England has also cut its benchmark rate from 4.75% to 4.5%. This rate drop gives hope to buyers. Harris adds that if swap rates fall further, lenders might soon give fixed-rate deals that cost less.

Regional Variations in Property Prices

Data shows clear differences across regions. Scotland leads with a 4% yearly rise in asking prices. The North West grows by 2.6%, and Yorkshire and Humberside by 4.1%. In the East of England, prices rise by 1.2%, while the South East sees a 0.6% rise and the South West sometimes drops a little.

In London, asking prices increased by 1.3% from last year. The average home now costs £695,885. These changes show that market trends vary by area. Local data helps both investors and homeowners make better choices.

Preparing for Spring and Beyond

Estate agents see more properties and active buyers this spring. Matt Thompson from Chestertons expects a rise in listings soon. Yet, buyers will still compete hard for each home.

Investors in HMOs should pay attention to these trends. Higher demand may bring better rent yields. Knowing local conditions well is key when making smart investments.

Conclusion

The UK property market is in a lively phase. Asking prices are rising, sales are strong, and stamp duty rules will soon change. With careful planning and the right tools, buyers can work through this market smartly. Whether you are a first-time buyer or a landlord growing your portfolio, using mortgage calculators and keeping up with news now can help you make solid decisions.

For more news and smart tools to support your property journey, visit trusted mortgage advisory sites such as Better.co.uk for expert help.

Sources

• Rightmove: House Prices and Market Data
• Halifax: House Price Index
• Nationwide Building Society: House Price Index
• SPF Private Clients: Market Insights

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